Overview & Reviews

Introduced in the mid-1990s, the front-wheel-drive Ford Windstar minivan campaigned with an emphasis on, and reputation for, safety. And in the hotly contested family minivan market of the time, that was an especially solid piece of ground to be on. As long as buyers didn't need to haul adults in back on a regular basis -- or find it necessary to remove the heavy third-row bench seat from the van often for additional cargo room -- the Windstar generally served a family's needs just fine.

Unfortunately, the Ford Windstar's general reputation for reliability was notably poorer than other competing minivans, particularly those from Honda and Toyota. The van's engine and transmission were particularly troublesome. In addition, we often criticized the Windstar for its noisy engines, poor interior space utilization and floppy handling.

Consequently, we suggest most shoppers take a look at other choices in this segment. But if you are set on getting a used Windstar, we'd at least suggest focusing on the most recent generation and consider opting for an extended warranty, if available.

Most recent Ford Windstar

During its nine years on the market, there were two Ford Windstar generations. The most recent was produced from 1999 to 2003. (Ford renamed it the Freestar for 2004.) The '99 van was completely redesigned to look more modern and sporty while upgrading mechanicals and adding a driver-side sliding door. The second- and third-row seats were now on rollers for easier maneuverability, and up front the instrument panel was reworked for improved ergonomics. There were also upgrades made to the suspension, transmission, brakes and air-conditioning.

Models now included base, LX, SE, SEL and Limited versions. Powering the van was either a 3.0-liter 150-horsepower V6 engine or -- a much more desirable -- 200-hp 3.8-liter V6. In reviews of the Ford Windstar at the time, our editors lauded the 3.8-liter engine for its power but complained that it was noisy under acceleration. We were also unhappy with its disconnected ride and handling, poor interior space utilization and weak reputation for reliability. Positive attributes included a plethora of convenience and safety features and top-notch crash test scores.

If we were shopping used Windstars, this new-and-improved second-generation version is as far back as we'd go. There were a few updates made through the years. The most significant of these were standard power-adjustable pedals, an optional rear-seat video entertainment system for 2000, the switch to the 3.8-liter engine as standard for all models in 2001 and the availability of safety-enhancing AdvanceTrac stability control for 2003.

Past Ford Windstar models

Ford introduced the front-wheel-drive Windstar in 1995 to replace its outgoing Aerostar rear-drive minivan. The new Windstar featured an extensive list of standard equipment, including dual airbags, antilock brakes, a four-speed automatic transmission and V6 power. Inside was seating for seven, including a unique integrated child seat.

The Windstar's only available engine was a 3.8-liter V6 which produced just 155 hp, but a more generous 220 pound-feet of low-end torque. Only a base GL model was available, but a more luxurious LX trim level was added in 1996 when a 3.0-liter 150-horsepower Vulcan V6 was made standard and an upgraded 3.8-liter V6 engine rated at 200 horses was optional. That year also saw four-wheel disc brakes fitted on vehicles equipped with traction control or the towing package. In 1998 -- the final year of its first generation -- the Windstar's driver's door was widened as a stop-gap measure to help access to the second row until the completely redesigned Windstar arrived a year later with a fourth door.

User Reviews:

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  Never again - 1996 Ford Windstar
  By trspd - September 3 - 2:00 am

  NEVER AGAIN WILL I BUY A WINDSTAR! Bought it for its 5-star safety rating at 69K miles. Replaced the engine at 70K miles. Engine light is always coming on-$55 to diagnose and re-set computer every time. Since May, Ive put in $3300, including new transmission at 120K miles (never had warning codes on dash come on, and nothing showed up on diagnostic machine when trans. started slipping), alternator, partial catalytic converter, O2 sensors, and much more. Drivers window doesnt work, and ignition cylinder needs to be replaced. Stress fracture across windshield. Money pit! Im buying Japanese from now on.

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  Roomy vehicle - 1998 Ford Windstar
  By FloridaBob - August 30 - 2:00 am

  My Windstar has given me excellent service to date. I purchased the ESP extended warrenty from Ford and have used it twice. New front wheel ABS sensor and power steering pump. Both after 50,000 miles. Every once in a while a do get a harsh shift in first gear if I come to almost a complete stop then accelerate.

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  Bring on #4 - 2000 Ford Windstar
  By bar13kar - August 27 - 2:00 am

  This is my 3rd Windstar and I look forward to #4. I look at all the negative reviews and I wonder if these vehicles that are complained about are actually Windstars. Ive never had any major problems. As a matter of fact, my 1995 had only the head gasket recall (which would have been done even if it was out of Manufac. warranty)and nothing else. I traded it in with 140,000 miles on it and did nothing but that recall and routine maint. I would recommend this vehicle to anyone. Problems will ocurr with any vehicle you take a chance on buying....no matter the make. This van is my 12th Ford/Merc product and will keep coming back!!!!!!!!!

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  I feel sorry for the next owner - 1998 Ford Windstar
  By Last one - August 25 - 2:00 am

  Ride and comfort level is good. The wheels on the GL rattle (theyre half hub caps, half aluminum wheels). The a/c cuts out for no reason, the ABS was repaired once and seems to have another problem now. The transmission hasnt gone-out...yet, but something isnt right. Door "ajar" swithches will drive you nuts when out of adjustment. Ford has some problems and they show-up in this van. The worst part about owning this vehicle is the "re-sell" value. Its worth nothing in no-time flat. When compared to my 2001 Honda Accord (with 46,000 miles and no service requirements), Ford clearly has their work cut-out for them.

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  No problems, Yet? - 2001 Ford Windstar
  By contented customer - August 25 - 2:00 am

  So far, no problems. I have heard horror stories about this 3.8 engine blowing head gaskets, hopefully they have fixed that problem. Vehicle is everything I thought it was supposed to be, being a minivan and all. Dual auto- sliding doors make it useful with 2 little ones. Dont think there is one thing that has gone bad in this vehicle, other than the VCR for some reason wont pull out. Not that it matters since Id rather it stay where it is. The rear reverse sensors do get annoying as it does beep alot even when nothing is behind the vehicle. I just hope that everything continues working as great as it has been.

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  2001 Ford Windstar Ext LX - 2001 Ford Windstar
  By munchkinohio - August 25 - 2:00 am

  This vehicle is a smooth ride,it is very comfortable, there is plenty of legroom in the back seat,lots of space, nice to have privacy glass also

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  Great family vehicle - 2003 Ford Windstar
  By denny2 - August 22 - 2:00 am

  overall good family vehicle.

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  Will never own a Ford again - 1995 Ford Windstar
  By hate ford - August 21 - 2:00 am

  this is my second ford, and the last one. the windstar compared to the taurus doesnt have as many minor continous problem (thus the name Fix Or Repair Daily) but I had to replace the transmission twice in 50000KM, a/c electrical problem, BALL JOINT, Tie Rod every spring...How can Ford be in Business.. Just bought a 2003 CRV bye bye Ford

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  Our 2001 Windstar - 2001 Ford Windstar
  By minivan marv - August 21 - 2:00 am

  My wife and I recently rolled up our sleeves and ventured into the uncharted territory of minivan ownership. We immediately fell in love with the smooth ride of the Windstar and both felt that we would gladly sacrifice cornering prowess for a smooth ride. In the end, we couldnt get the Windstars ride or reputation of safety out of our minds and have no regrets about our decision. With lots of power, great visibility, a smooth ride and almost no road noise, we feel very comfortable bombing around town or heading out on a long trip.

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  99 Ford Windstar LX - 1999 Ford Windstar
  By chirpy1 - August 19 - 2:00 am

  The Ford Windstar is a nice looking mini-van, but in our case not very reliable. The van has been plagued by engine and transmission problems. After this 2nd bad FORD experience, we are afraid to buy a domestic made vehicle again. Have had bad luck!